12. Shawne Merriman, LB, San Diego Chargers
Merriman earned his nickname “Lights Out” in high school after knocking four opposing players unconscious in one game. Of course, that’s not necessarily something that would be celebrated today. In any event, he passed on offers to play for bigger schools in favor of playing for his home state Maryland Terrapins, where he emerged as a star late in his college career.
The Chargers took him 12th overall with the extra pick they had from trading away Eli Manning the previous year. Merriman quickly became one of the best linebackers in the NFL, going to the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons. He was Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2005 and the NFL sacks leader in 2006. But injuries started to derail him in a big way starting in 2008. He was never the same player after that and also dealt with some legal problems. Merriman last played in the NFL in 2012 and has since stayed busy with other ventures, including pro wrestling and MMA.